ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. – After six consecutive UFC wins and his emergence as a legit welterweight contender, Rick Story lost two straight and fell out of the title picture.

But against promotional newcomer Brock Jardine, Story got back on track with a dominant and much-needed win.

The fight took place at UFC on FX 4 at Revel Atlantic City in New Jersey. It aired on the FUEL TV preliminary card following additional prelims on Facebook and prior to the FX-televised main card.

After some early exchanges in the first round, Story smoothly wrapped a high-crotch takedown and forced the fight to the mat, where he immediately took Jardine’s back. The UFC newcomer escaped to his feet and got through a solid right, but Story popped him with sporadic punches and kicks for the remainder of the round.

Twice in the second round, Story scored takedowns and again methodically worked to take his opponent’s back. Jardine aptly navigated his way out of both, but Story again won the round with the takedowns and the crisper striking..

Story noticeably slowed in the final frame, but Jardine failed to capitalize. After a sloppy exchange, Story closed the distance, dropped Jardine with a forearm strike, and briefly took him to the mat. Perhaps fueled by the blow, Story picked up the pace and shut down Jardine’s offense for the remainder of the fight.

As no surprise, Story picked up the workmanlike unanimous-decision victory via 30-27 scores across the board.

“It’s a stepping stone,” Story said. “I didn’t follow my game plan to a tee, but I came out on top.

“I’m always driving to get the finish. I didn’t get the finish, but he’s a tough wrestler, and coming away with a victory is the best I can ask for.”

Story (14-5 MMA, 7-3 UFC) picks up his first win in a year and earn some needed job security. Jardine (9-2 MMA, 0-1 UFC) snaps a three-fight win streak with the UFC-debut defeat.

A total of 26 fighters got their chance to shine on Saturday as part of UFC 190 at Rio de Janeiro’s HSBC Arena. Now that UFC 190 is in the books, it’s time to commence MMAjunkie’s “Three Stars” ceremony.

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